FMC’s WON WANTS TO OUTLAW VOLUNTARY RATE GUIDELINES

   Federal Maritime Commissioner Del Won wants Congress to remove the
rights of discussion agreements, such as the Transpacific Stabilization
Agreement, to set voluntary rate guidelines for member lines.
   Won, whose investigation into carrier actions in the eastbound
transpacific trades alleged malpractices during last year’s pre-holiday
space crunch, made the recommendation in response to questions asked by
House Judiciary Committee Chairman Henry Hyde, R-Ill.
   Hyde’s query was a follow up to hearings held last month on ocean
carriers’ antitrust immunity.
   Won’s proposal would still allow carrier agreements, including
discussion agreements to engage in slot charter and service rationalization
agreements, which are said to produce efficiencies and benefits to the
shipping public.